Alison Hammond’s career is soaring right now, with the much-loved TV performer receiving glowing reviews in her new job as Bake Off’s newest co-presenter.
With the 48-year-old seldom off our screens these days, it’s easy to forget that she originally rose to prominence as a Big Brother housemate, making a brief but memorable stint on the show’s civilian edition.
With the programme about to return this weekend for its first series in five years, relocating to its new home on ITV2, let’s remember Alison’s spell there.
When did she appear on Big Brother, and how long did she stay?
When was Alison Hammond on Big Brother?
Alison Hammond participated in Big Brother 3 in 2002, which aired on Channel 4.
She appeared on the same series of the programme as the late Jade Goody, Radio 1 DJ Adele Roberts, and TV and radio personality Kate Lawler, who went on to win the series.
In her audition video, Alison described herself as addicted to Vaseline, which she used to keep her lips moisturised, and the only thing that makes her upset is “not being able to eat Chinese food.”
She also said that she is a Harry Potter lover who aspires to establish her own clothing store.
How long was Alison Hammond in the Big Brother house?
She and Kate Lawler were both evicted from Big Brother for discussing nominations.
Alison stated that she applied for the property at a time when she was struggling financially, despite previously working as a vacation rep, at British Gas and in a theatre.
‘Everyone kept saying: ‘You should go into Big Brother,” she told host Lorraine Kelly. ‘At the time, I was £4,000 in debt. I went into an internet café to apply online.’
Although she didn’t stay on the show long, her presence got the attention of a This Morning producer, who gave her a position as a reporter – and the rest is history.
The Great British Bake Off is on Channel 4 on Tuesday night at 8pm. Big Brother starts on ITV and ITV2 on Sunday October 8 at 9pm.
